An Atomic Force Microscope to Enhance and Expand Undergraduate Research

该项目支持使用原子力显微镜，以加强和扩大已经蓬勃发展的本科生参与物理研究计划。显微镜并不作为一个孤立的技术好奇心;相反，它是正在进行的物理实验室研究计划的重要组成部分，是智力和操作访问的本科生。该研究计划涉及凝聚态物理学当前感兴趣的主题，同时让学生接触到对基础研究至关重要的广泛的现代实验技术以及直接经济重要性的领域，如电气工程，纳米纤维和材料科学。这些技术包括低温、高真空、薄膜沉积、光刻、电子设计和构造、机械车间实践和电气测量。新仪器为本科生提供了新的研究机会，并提高了他们工作的质量和意义。该计划也可能是一个有用的和有吸引力的模型，为其他物理学家有兴趣在本科生的帮助下进行可持续的研究。

This project supports the use of an atomic force microscope to strengthen and extend an already vigorous program of undergraduate participation in physics research. The microscope does not function as an isolated technological curiosity; instead, it is an essential component of the ongoing physics laboratory research program, and is intellectually and operationally accessible to undergraduates. The research program addresses topics of current interest in condensed matter physics while exposing students to a broad spectrum of modern experimental techniques critical to basic research as well as to fields of direct economic importance such as electrical engineering, nanofabrication, and materials science. These techniques include cryogenics, high vacuum, thin-film deposition, photolithography, electronic design and construction, machine shop practice, and electrical measurements. The new apparatus introduces fresh research opportunities for undergraduates and enhances the quality and significance of their work. The program may also be a useful and appealing model for other physicists interested in pursuing publishable research with undergraduate assistance.